Windows Live Messenger, formally MSN Messenger, will be shut down by Microsoft next year in favour of Skype.

Microsoft merges Messenger and Skype users for consistent service

Originally called MSN Messenger, Microsoft has decided to lay Windows Live Messenger to rest after donkey's years, 13 to be exact. The Windows 8 maker is encouraging users to move over to Skype which Microsoft acquired last year. See also: Skype for Windows 8 review.

The Skype blog said: "We want to focus our efforts on making things simpler for our users while continuously improving the overall experience. We will retire Messenger in all countries worldwide in the first quarter of 2013."

The only exception to this is that Messenger will remain available to use in mainland China. Windows Live Messenger is used by over 330 million people but Skype has over 600 million users.

For those saddened or even annoyed by the news Microsoft said it's all about the people not the app itself. Users can sign into Skype with the same account details they use for Messenger.

"To help you learn how to get the most out of Skype, be on the lookout for some special offers later this year as you join your Messenger friends in the migration." added Microsoft.